Episodes
How does poetry help us understand people better, using words that touch our hearts and reveal hidden feelings?  In this captivating episode of This Anthro Life, we engage with Adrie Kusserow, an esteemed anthropologist who brings a unique poetic perspective to her work. We delve into the essence of anthropology, emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling and its role in shaping cultural narratives. Adrie Kusserow shares her profound journey in Kathmandu, recounting how it shifted...
Published 03/27/24
Published 03/27/24
How does understanding the psychology behind lying enhance our ability to unravel the truth in conversations? In this insightful episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the intricate dynamics of communication, emphasizing the pivotal role of context. Drawing from his expertise in forensic interviewing, he illuminates how decoding body language, facial cues, and power dynamics can reveal deeper truths. Reddington highlights empathy as a linchpin for fostering honesty, acknowledging that...
Published 03/20/24
Have you ever wondered how anthropology intersects with personal growth and academia? In this compelling episode of This Anthro Life, the discussion delves into the multifaceted world of anthropology, academia, and personal development. Nethra Samarawickrema shares her perspective on topics ranging from the origins of anthropology to the challenges of fieldwork and knowledge production. Key themes include the importance of active listening in fieldwork, navigating the tension between...
Published 03/14/24
What fascinating parallels exist between the structure of bees in a hive and the potential for humanity to function as a superorganism? In this episode, we engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Byron Reese about the concept of superorganisms. Reese draws parallels between the structure and behavior of bees in a hive and the potential for humanity to function as a superorganism. He explores the idea that a collective entity, which he calls "Agora," could emerge from the...
Published 03/07/24
Have you ever pondered how acknowledging and reframing past trauma could be transformative? In this riveting episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the profound impact of acknowledging and reframing past trauma as the initial step toward healing. Through the wisdom letter writing method, we uncover the process of identifying life lessons learned, enabling a deeper understanding of core values and beliefs. Discover how sharing our stories brings hope, fosters collective healing, and...
Published 02/28/24
How is the delicate balance between recording Micronesian cultural heritage, addressing community needs, and gaining international acknowledgment for preservation endeavors managed? Ashley in Micronesia collaborates with communities to identify research topics, stressing adaptability during fieldwork. Navigating linguistic intricacies, ethical dilemmas, and community preferences is essential while also promoting global recognition. In this episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the...
Published 02/22/24
How can we use CLIR's help to protect our cultural heritage during climate change? Could telling stories be a big help in keeping our culture alive? Why must we work together to fight climate change and save our heritage? And can technology bring together businesses and academics to help with this? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we talk with Charles Henry, President of the Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR), about protecting our cultural heritage during challenges like...
Published 02/16/24
How is technology transforming end-of-life care experiences, and why are AI and automation crucial in reshaping the funeral industry? In what ways are cultural norms around grieving shifting, and what does the future hold for personalized and meaningful ways to honor loved ones? In this episode of The Anthro Life, we delve into the intersection of technology and compassion in the field of end-of-life care. Faisal Abid, founder of Eirene Cremations, shares his journey from working in AI to...
Published 02/09/24
Why does democracy inherently involve loss, and how do black grief and white grievance shape the intricate landscape of contemporary racial politics in the United States? In this insightful episode, we unravel the intricate dynamics of racial politics in the U.S. Democracy's inherent tension and the intersection of black grief and white grievance take center stage, shaping political activism. We explore the personal costs of activism through figures like Mamie Till-Mobley and Erica Garner,...
Published 01/31/24
How can businesses effectively integrate insights from social sciences like psychology and anthropology to gain a deeper understanding of human behavior, and how might this integration impact decision-making and innovation within the corporate world? In this thought-provoking episode of This Anthro Life,Oliver explores the fusion of social sciences and business, sharing his journey from psychology to incorporating anthropology at Ipsos. He emphasizes the importance of merging disciplines for...
Published 01/25/24
Have you considered the untold stories in our perceptions of sexuality? How do community strength, the role of play and toys in sexual exploration, and the promotion of sex positivity, as seen through Carol's insights, contribute to fostering a more inclusive society? In this captivating episode of This Anthro Life, we engage in a captivating conversation with Carol Queen, a renowned sexologist and advocate for sex positivity. Carol delves into her personal journey within the realm of...
Published 01/17/24
How does the interplay between big systems-level questions and fundamental human questions in accessibility, disability rights, and human potential? In this captivating episode of This Anthro Life, we embark on a profound exploration of accessibility, disability rights, and human potential through an enthralling conversation with a distinguished expert who has devoted his life to these pivotal issues. The discussion delves deep into the intricate fusion of macro-level concerns related to...
Published 01/11/24
What are the consequences of misinformation on personal relationships, business operations, and regulatory decisions? And how does the spread of misinformation pose an existential threat to society as a whole? What role does artificial intelligence play in the creation and proliferation of misinformation? In this thought-provoking episode of This Anthro Life, we delve deep into the chaotic world of misinformation and its potential existential threats. Our guest, James Mawhinney, founder of...
Published 01/04/24
The traditional view of mental health often focuses on the absence of mental illness, but a new theory is emerging that emphasizes the importance of neurodiversity and individual differences in the pursuit of long-term happiness. The question is, how can we reconcile the medicalization of mental health with the idea of neurodiversity and the unique strengths that come with different neurotypes? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we dive into a new perspective on mental health and...
Published 12/27/23
How do narratives shape our understanding of shared human experiences like dignity and respect? And, in what ways can an emphasis on human universals through inclusive narratives help fulfill fundamental human desires for dignity and respect?In this episode of This Anthro Life, we explore these questions through a discussion with sociologist Michele Lamont and her research on narratives and society. Lamont's concept of "ordinary universalism" focuses narrative frameworks on common aspects of...
Published 12/20/23
In the episode of This Anthro Life, the dialogue investigates waste transformation and how waste can be converted into useful energy and materials. Dan explains his work with Stellar Three focusing on pyrolysis technology that uses heat in an oxygen-free environment to break down plastics and other waste into synthetic gas, oils and carbon black. This process allows waste to be converted back into raw materials to make new plastics, chemicals and fuels.The conversation touches on the large...
Published 12/13/23
What does the concept of autonomy bring to mind for you?How has AI already begun reshaping how we work and make decisions? And do you think AI and algorithms should play a role in organizational decision-making? Why or why not? In the episode of This Anthro Life, the discussion delves into the intersection of human autonomy and the evolving landscape of AI. It emphasizes the need for diverse voices that prioritize human well-being, flourishing, and autonomy in the face of technological...
Published 12/06/23
How do civilians strategically engage with conflict while seeking everyday peace? How do power dynamics and asymmetries impact the ability of civilians to strategically engage with conflict while simultaneously seeking everyday peace, and what are the implications of these dynamics for broader peace and stability in war-torn environments? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we explore an insightful discussion with anthropologist Greta Uehling about her ethnographic research on civilians'...
Published 11/29/23
What new possibilities do you see emerging with voice technology? How might it influence our interactions with businesses and services in the future and what if your voice could transform the way we interact with technology? Imagine a world where your voice can effortlessly interact with devices and transform the way we navigate our surroundings. In this episode of This Anthro Life, we explore the world of future technology with guest Tobias Dengel, a leading expert in digital...
Published 11/22/23
What is the importance of belonging in the workplace according to research? And what are some key actions that business leaders can take to create a fantastic work culture? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the topic of building a stronger sense of belonging and identity within organizations through dimensional leadership. Drawing from his extensive research involving more than 15,000 employees, Brad Deutser highlights the crucial role that belonging plays in fostering...
Published 11/15/23
Have you ever wondered if reaching for the stars is humanity's most urgent priority? Is it the thrill of exploration, the endless possibilities, or our desire to ensure that our species has a plan B? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we tackle the captivating and fascinating world of Space Exploration and Space Industry with anthropologist Savannah Mandel. Savannah Mandel shares her research and experiences working in the human space exploration industry. She discusses her journey from...
Published 11/08/23
Are you curious about the untapped wisdom that exists outside of traditional academic knowledge? Do you want to learn how stories, dialogue, and sensory experiences can enhance our understanding of the world? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we dive into the fascinating world of anthropology with esteemed anthropologist and author Paul Stoller. Paul shares his fascinating experiences studying healing practices and encountering unexplainable phenomena in Niger. We delve into the...
Published 11/01/23
Did you know that conversation, one of the oldest human technologies, is reshaping the future of how we interact with machines? We’re not talking Siri or Alexa here, but conversational AI, interfaces anyone can create and hyper automation that links together our intentions, tools and technologies. Join us in this episode of This Anthro Life as we delve into the fascinating world of conversational AI, hyper automation and composable software systems with the brilliant mind of User Experience...
Published 10/25/23
What can we learn from our handling of the COVID-19 pandemic to better prepare for future crises? Why is it crucial to build a diagnostic infrastructure for future crises? And what lessons can we learn from the collaboration between healthcare providers and the sports industry during the COVID-19 pandemic? In this fascinating episode of This Anthro Life podcast, surgeon-turned-CEO Jon Cohen shares the story of how he and his team led the nation in the creation of diagnostics testing for...
Published 10/18/23